Cooper Square by Bond No 9

My first Bond No. 9 fragrance, and I agree with the fellow reviewer about the metallic tone; it smells very masculine, clean yet dense, with incredible longevity and sillage. Highly recommended, though be aware it’s not easy to wear and few people use it; however, you’ll make a statement with a classic touch.

Thanks to Shiseido, I was able to smell this. Many thanks! The juniper berries, lavender, and frankincense stand out; there’s also a cognac or liquor note. The dry-down feels slightly ‘smoky’, with labdanum and cashmere wood providing a pleasant depth to the trail, alongside that ‘light sweetness’ Shiseido mentions. It’s delicate and elegant, though it doesn’t stand out for originality or surprise compared to other Bond n°9 creations. Imagine a typical juniper, lavender, and ‘something more’ fragrance, but refined and improved nine times over. Close your eyes and you’ll picture a spacious room with wooden furniture, some art, books, and a fireplace for warm conversation. Cary Grant and Gregory Peck also come to mind… could they have smelled of Cooper Square? I’m left with the feeling that it’s better suited for sharing at close range rather than projecting a significant trail.

I absolutely adore this fragrance; it has instantly joined my select list of favourites. That said, and with the caveat that this is a positive review, I will now elaborate. On the English version of Fragrantica, it is compared to Calvin Klein One, which I am unfamiliar with (and, as is often the case, has been discontinued), but I believe they are spot on; it is very ‘CK’ in style. It is sporty, refined, youthful (not juvenile), light, and distinctly American (with juniper berry and woody notes), ideal for classy occasions without being over-the-top, akin to a suit without a tie. The scent is not overly familiar, yet not extraordinarily original, which is a plus. It has a slight sweetness that I enjoy. The metallic bottle is a real gem. I identify with its ‘metallic’ spirit: at times, I detect a scent reminiscent of metal, polished instruments, or tools. It is a neutral, light aroma that you have to press your nose close to perceive, a truly ‘cool’ scent. Perhaps it gives off a synthetic touch (I have read negative reviews on Fragrantica stating this, but I think they exaggerate or are prejudiced). The cognac note is clear, the spices add an ‘oriental’ touch, but if you’ll allow me to say so, an ‘Arabian oriental’ (Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, Syria, Armenia, Turkey…). I do not wish to mix religion, but the incense, myrrh, and ‘exotic’ spices reminded me of religious texts. All of this rests on a woody base, which is much appreciated. For me, trying and wearing it was almost a mystical experience. I do not wish to influence, it may not be entirely objective, but I say what I think. Age range: 20 to 50 (flexible but youthful). Climate: Warm and breezy or fresh spring. Gender: Unisex, though it appears more masculine. Strong point: not everyone owns it; it gives you a personal touch. Bottle: Top 10. Scent: Delicious. Sillage: Soft. Longevity: I will let you know later.